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Real-Time News, Weather & WebCams: HighlandsInfo.com Thursday, Aug. 8, 2019Volume 16, Number 32

•Inside This Issue•Mayor on Duty ..................... 2Weather ................................. 2Letter ..................................... 2Investing ............................... 10 Word Matter ......................... 11

DogSpeak .............................. 13 Events ................................. 14-15Obituary ................................ 16Police & Fire ......................... 19Classifieds ............................. 22

• See SPORTS page 15

The SUMMER HOUSE

Open Monday – Saturday

9a-5pSunday– noon to 5p2089 Highway 106

828-526-5577

‘Home Furnishing Center’

The Fun for the whole family!

828-526-8773highlandscanopytour.com

• See PARTNERING page 16

• See FOREST SERVICE page 19

An early evening wreck at the Middlecreek Bridge on NC 106 in Scaly Mountain stalled traffic in both directions for about an hour Sunday evening. The narrow bridge makes two vehicles manuevering it difficult which is one reason the bridge is slated to be replaced in 2020. Accord-ing to NCDOT Project Engineer Keith Paschal, the current bridge will be used as an on-site detour while the new, wider bridge is built alongside it. The job is schedued to be “let” May 2020 with work beginning 40 days later. Two septic tanks need to either be moved or redirected before the project can begin.

– Photo by Glenda Bell

Wreck on Middlecreek Bridge points to need for change

Big Brothers, Big Sisters sponsored a group activity at The Spice & Tea Exchange on Main Street Friday night where the “bigs” and the “littles” worked together creating a kid-friendly meal of 6-layer dip, guacomole, tacos and air-fried donuts. For more information on the BBBS program, email Danielle Hernandez-Juarez at [email protected].

BBBS family has fun at TS&TE

Last week, Highlands Mayor Patrick Taylor, town commission-ers and staff traveled to Franklin for a joint meeting with the Frank-lin Town Council and the Macon County Board of Commissioners. Three times a year, the town and county elected bodies come to-gether with each taking a turn to host the event which includes din-ner and updates from each area of the county. The Town of Franklin

hosted the recent meeting at the Franklin Fire and Rescue Dept.

In addition to Taylor, High-lands was represented by Town Commissioners Donnie Calloway, Amy Patterson and Eric Pierson as well as Town Manager Josh Ward, Town Clerk Gibby Shaheen and college intern Olivia Stewman.

Partnerships between the elected bodies was the underlying theme of Taylor’s update. He be-

gan with a discussion on the coun-ty’s critical need for broadband, and the progress Highlands has made in fulfilling this need for the town. He stated broadband is just one area the town governments and the commissioners can part-ner together for the betterment of the entire county.

“Despite the fact that NC House Bill 129 and NC House

Mayor plugs partnering at combo mtg.

School fall sports are

off and running

By Brian O’SheaHighlands Middle and High

School sports are in full swing and student athletes are hitting the field, court, trail, pool, and course getting set for competition later this month.

Some sports making a come-back are HS and MS cross country as well as HS girls golf; new is MS swimming. Athletic Director Brett Lamb said there are additional sports this year because of high-student interest.

“We know the additions will be a work in progress, but num-bers have been good so far,” said Lamb.

Forest Service proposes cutting public input

Deadline to submit comments is August 12, 2019A proposal from the Forest

Service to cut public participation concerning upcoming project deci-sions has the Chattooga Conser-vancy sounding an alert.

The organization claims the

policy changes would cut out en-vironmental review and public involvement for most Forest Ser-vice decisions, including logging, road construction and pipeline

www.highlandssothebysrealty.com • 114 N. 4th St., Highlands, NC • 828-526-4104

Top Producing Firm in Highlands per HCMLS2014 2015 2016 2017 2018

Dedicated Professional Attentive Enthusiastic Grateful

• See LETTER page 8

• The PlaTeau’s PosiTion ••Mayor on Duty•

Highlands Newspaperwww.highlandsinfo.com Phone: (828) 200-1371

Email: [email protected] Publisher/Editor: Kim Lewicki Reporters: Brittney Lofthouse

Brian O’SheaDigital Media/Circulation - Jim Lewicki

Locally owned and operated by Kim & Jim Lewicki

Adobe PDF version at www.HighlandsInfo.com

265 Oak St.; P.O. Box 2703, Highlands, N.C., 28•741

Al l R ights Reser ved . No ar t ic les , photos, illustrations, advertisements or design elements may be used without per-mission from the publisher.

Letter Policy:We reserve the right to reject or edit letters-to-the-editor. No anonymous letters will be accepted. Views expressed are not necessarily those of Highlands Newspaper.

•Weather•

For Real-time Weather and the Extended Forecast, go to www.highlandsinfo.com and click on Weather

•hic’s VieW•

- Highlands Newspaper - Thurs., Aug.,8 2019 - 828-200-1371

•Letters•

Highlands MayorPatrick Taylor

Dear Editor,When President Bush was re-elected in 2004, movie actor Alec Baldwin was so undone he

said he felt compelled to move to Canada. He made the same empty threat when Donald Trump won the presidential election in 2016. Personally, and futilely, I am still awaiting Baldwin’s belated departure.

That being said, I can relate to his countless feelings of distress, dismay, disbelief, chagrin, personal affront, personal violation and ultimately, feelings of shock. These were some of my re-

Say ‘no’ to lighting up Highlands

When it comes to gov-ernment, things can change in a New York

minute. Monday morning I re-ceived an email from NCDOT announcing that the resurfacing of US 64, including Main Street, and NC 28 had once again been delayed. Originally this five-mil-lion dollar project was scheduled for this past spring. It was recent-ly postponed to spring of 2020. Now it is once again pushed back to spring of 2021!

My immediate response to NCDOT was that portions of the roads will not hold up that long, and major patching will have to be done in the interim. I copied our legis-lators my email response to NCDOT.

Here is my assessment. NCDOT is basically broke due to the MAP Act lawsuit settlement. What is the MAP Act?

Thirty years ago, the NC Legislature passed the MAP Act authorizing NCDOT to earmark land for future road building. In other words, NCDOT could tell property owners it intended to build a road through a landowner’s property at some point. This

essentially encumbered private property for future use. Many of these seizures never resulted in roads being built, and property owners were denied use and de-velopment of their land.

The constitutionality of the MAP Act was challenged by these property owners in court. The NC Supreme Court recently ruled in favor of the landowners and directed NCDOT to com-pensate hundreds of property

owners. NCDOT is now in the process of set-

tling with the property owners, and costs could exceed over 1-billion dollars. That translates into a lot of lost road construc-tion. I suspect the resurfacing project has fallen victim. It might be time for the state to tap into that “rainy day” surplus fund to cover settlement costs. While many may appreciate fiscally conservative practices, crumbling highways and roads is another matter.

Getting contractors to do work in this robust economy is a critical problem. Plans suddenly change. Our contractor for the water tank on Satulah also has the $875,000 contract for the Split Rail waterline replace-ment. Stillwell and Associates have made fast time on completing the water tank. They were scheduled to go to Murphy to do a contract, and then return September or October to start the Split Rail project.

Their Murphy job was recently delayed, so Stillwell decided to move up the timeline for the Split Rail project since their equip-ment and personnel were here. A contractor promising they are leaving but will come-back can be problematic. So, this week Still-well began laying waterline on Split Rail. It will take months to complete, but they are moving forward.

I met with a group from the Split Rail community last Friday to update them as best I could. It is a huge project requiring heavy equipment to cut through rock and dig trenches for 6-inch lines. It will be dis-ruptive, and some folks will be shocked at the earthmoving and loss of vegetation. Once the line is complete and residencies are connected, cleanup and paving of the road will take place.

Main Street paving is postponed again

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Highlands Newspaper -Thurs., Aug.,8 2019 - 828-200-1371 -

MeadowsMountainRealty.com | 828.526.1717

At Highlands Falls CC 2334 CASHIERS ROAD

Downtown Highlands488 MAIN STREET

Downtown Cashiers 132 HIGHWAY 107 SOUTH

PRICE CHANGE: Totally renovated from inside out, this charming cot-tage offers 3 bedrooms and 2 baths all on the main floor. Drive into the garage and walk into the laundry area, then into the new kitchen with the latest appliances. Master bedroom and bath sit at one end and the two other rooms and bath are on the other side of house. It has an attached two car garage with a small workshop space. The home is offered totally furnished, turnkey, and ready to move into.

MLS# 90683 | Was $595,000 NOW Offered for $549,000!

PRICE CHANGE: With handsome wood floors throughout the common areas, a stone fireplace and vaulted ceilings, the home has a terrific floorplan that makes entertaining a breeze. A new kitchen features an oversized island, granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. The large master suite opens to the cov-ered deck and features lots of windows. The lower level boasts three bedrooms plus a family room with wet bar.


NEW ON MARKET: Great location in Chestnut Hill on a cul de sac. Lovely rocking chair front porch plus a screened porch in the back. Landscape care and exterior maintenance of the home is provided by the HOA. This is like living in a condo but enjoying a single family home on one level with a garage. HOA fees also include road maintenance, snow removal, water, and sewer. The home is in great condition and easy to see.

MLS# 91604 | Offered for $315,000

PRICE CHANGE: Adorable cottage in Highlands Falls CC in a very private location on a cul de sac. The home has an older pedigree but has been updated with the addition of a large master suite plus a lower level which features a family room and additional guest quarters. The main level features an updated kitchen with a breakfast bar and opens to the greatr oom with stone fireplace. The back deck has a view of Shortoff Mountain. Offered completely furnished.


NEW on MARKET & PRICE CHANGES!

• Highlands Area Dining •

Serving Lunch and Dinner Year-Round.Gourmet Foods, Full Service BarTown Square at 343-D Main St. • Highlands

828-526-4035

Serving Lunch 11a to 4p

ANDServing Dinner

from 5:30p 7 Days a Week

Open Year Round • 6 days

Asia HouseJapanese • Asian• Thai Cuisine

Mon. thru Thurs., 11a to 10pFri., & Sat., 11a to 11 p

Sun., noon to 10p828-787-1680 or 828-787-1900

We Cater!151 Helen’s Barn Avenue

Please call for reservations

Closed Wednesday & Daily 3 to 4:30p

828-526-2338

...on the Verandah Restaurant

on Lake Sequoyahwww.ontheverandah.com

US 64 west • Highlands

Dinner served

nightly at 5:30Sunday

Brunch begins at 11 a.m.

474 Main Street | 828.526.3807 | wolfgangs.net

Open Everyday except TuesdaysBistro Opens at 4pm | Dining Room at 5:30pm

Cel ebra t i ng 25 Year s

Main Street Highlands since 1984

JOIN US FOR OUR

30th SeasonTUESDAY – SUNDAY

DINNER STARTS @ 5:30PM

531 SMALLWOOD AVE | 828-526-9419

OUTDOOR, PET FRIENDLYDINING AVAILABLE

NOW OPEN SUNDAYS!

- Highlands Newspaper -Thurs., Aug.,8 2019 - 828-200-1371

The LOG CABIN CASUAL DINING

Fresh Seafood, Steaks & Comfortable Italian

Lunch: Thurs.-Sat. noon to 3pDinner Nightly at 5p

Just off Main Street in a historic 1924 Joe Webb log cabin

828 526-5777 www.LogCabinHighlands.com

1 30 LOG CABIN LANE

Open for Lunch beginning

Friday, Aug. 9






HORSE COVE Enjoy miles of breathtaking, long-range views overlooking Horse Cove and beyond. Design of the home is intended to capture as much of the view as possible using large windows and glass doors throughout. The master, liv-ing room and dining room each open to the deck to allow for cool breezes and fresh air. The lower level has two guest bedrooms, one bathroom, family room, and sun room. Located at the top of Horse Cove and close to downtown Highlands!

MLS# 91376 | Offered for $1,050,000

HIGHLANDS FALLS CC Look no further for a country club home that’s easy to maintain and just big enough for your needs. Three bedrooms, three and one-half baths all on one level with wood floors, beautiful stone fireplace, and a dream kitchen with breakfast nook. Imagine sitting on the spacious deck, relaxing to the sounds of the birds and the vision of the rock face of Whiteside before you. Custom built for the previous owner, this home is well constructed to last.

MLS# 91522 | Offered for $950,000

BIG BEAR PEN Seated in either the sunroom or the covered porch with wood-burning fireplace, you can admire the beautiful views of Whiteside Moun-tain and the cascading falls at Highlands Falls CC. As you walk through the foyer you are greeted by the spacious light-filled great room with beamed cathedral ceil-ing and living room with large stone fireplace. This open floor plan with its formal dining area and outdoor living space is the perfect home for entertaining.

MLS# 89150 | Offered for $1,145,000

HIGHGATE The house backs up to the Nantahala National Forest and has a ridgeline view. There is no shortage of beautiful spaces to enjoy, including large screened outdoor porches with a wood-burning fireplace. The large master with vaulted ceiling boasts a private screened porch, great bath and walk-in closet. Two guest suites are nothing short of perfect, including a bunk area in one. There is a large office as well as a fenced dog yard and beautiful landscaping.

MLS# 90504 | Offered for $1,225,000

In Wright Square137 Main Street

Dine In or Take Out828-820-8686

Open Mon.-Sat. 7a to 4p • Sun. 8a to 3pAll Day Craft Breakfast, Lunch

and Pastries GaloreVegan & Vegetarian Options

Eggs Your Way • Omelets Corn Beef Hash • Eggs Benedict

3 Chef-Crafted Soups Daily Salads

Hot Sandwiches DailyHand-made in-House Burgers

Panni Sandwiches • Cubans • Ruebens and much more!Come See Us!

at The Main Street Inn270 Main Street (828) 526-2590

Check out the website or call for hours.

Weekend music on the lawn.www.mainstreet-inn.com


Altitudes Restaurant

at Skyline Lodge . ;c•"'· •. Fine Dining with. a VwdJ! �-;;� • �·�i;\,_ . �. ,tot i� ·J,i�;:�:

470 Skyline Lodge Road 828-526-2121

Full bar

Open for DinnerWed.- Sat at 5:30p

Open for BreakfastSat. 7:30-11a Sun. 7:30-10a

Sunday Brunch11:30a to 2p

AppetizerCoconut Shrimp

SoupMussel & Saffron Fish Special

Grilled red trout with a crawfish etouffe

Special EntreePan seared bon-in pork chop over a

bed of collard greens

Friday & Saturday SpecialSlow-roasted Prime Rib

RONNIE EVANS, GUITARIST

Reservations appreciated

Quesadillas • Tacos • Burritos Homemade soups & fresh Iy baked cookies

Open Mondays - Saturday

11a to 3p 226 S. 4th St. Highlands • 828-526-9313


Cafe

WeCaterHighlands.com828-526-8847

470 Oak St adjacent to the Park in Downtown Highlands

Courtyard

& Catering

Fressers

Mobile Kitchen/Grill for Onsite Catering

Large Deli Selection and Quick Take-outWe bring the party to you!

Call ahead. We’ll have your order ready.Courtyard Dining

Your table is ready. Weather permitting.

OPEN LATE

SAT. for p

ark co

ncert

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Pricing includes a full membership to Old Edwards Club, valued at $80,000, as well as the new family-friendly amenities offered at GlenCove by Old Edwards.

Offered for $1,695,000 | Contact Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Meadows Mountain Realty for more information

We’re thrilled to announce another wonderful community from Old Edwards Hospitality Group! Located in-town and walkable to all that Highlands has to offer, this property is just over three acres and will include six homes, each on a half-acre lot. The community will be gated and beautifully landscaped to include a common area featuring a pavilion and small pond. Constructed by renowned Highlands builder, Lupoli Construction, this project will exhibit the finest quality, design, and materials. There are two floor plans available including one-level and two-level options, both with three bedrooms and three and a half baths.

• 12-foot ceilings in the great room with wood beams and high baseboards

• Kohler fixtures and stone in kitchens and baths

• Carrera or travertine tile in baths and heated floors in master bath

• Stainless steel appliance package from KitchenAid

• Whirlpool appliances featured in the laundry room

• Beautiful outdoor spaces with wood-burning and stacked-stone fireplaces

Craft Ice Cream &Hand-Crafted SandwichesSummer Hours:

Corner of 4th & Main (115 S 4th Street) | 828-526-9632

11:00AM - 8:00PM 11:00AM - 5:00PM

Mon - SatSun

Fast & Fresh Family Food


595 Franklin Road, Highlands, NC 828.526.3554

www.highlandssmokehouse.comFollow Us on Facebook & Instagram

Peace from the Pit ®

Real pit BBQ!

OPEN Mon, Wed, Thurs,11-9 • Fri & Sat 11-10 • Sun, 11-7

(CLOSED TUESDAY)

I

Change is the only constant in life, we took

Highlands' best old mainstay and made it better.

Now serving Lunch and Dinner, T ug's Proper is the preeminent

place in Highlands that caters to Locals and Travelers alike.

OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK LUNCH • DINNER

11a - 10pSunday Lunch

10a-2p

310 Main Street • Highlands 828.526.3555

www.tugsproper.com

MOUNTAIN FRESH AT THE END OF MAIN STREET,BUT THE CENTER OF TOWN

BREAKFAST

mimosasbloody Marys

French Toast

house-roasted coffee

made-to-order Specialty Coffees

muffinscroissants

STEEL-CUT OATMEAL

Pepper

Bacon

SAUSAGEHAM

LU

NC

H SALMON

CaesarSalad

GrilledChicken

HOT ANDCOLD BAR

DIN

NERdeli sandwiches

PASTAhand-cut friesDaily Chef Features Fresh Angus Burger

DINNERS-TO-GO

Friday Steak NightNATHAN’S HOT DOGS

ROTISSERIESTROMBOLI

BARWood-fired Pizza

ANDMUCHMORE!

www.MFGRO.comBelgian Waffles

house-made salads


actions to the July 25th report in Highlands Newspaper of the July Town Board meeting (July 18th) concerning the “lighting up” of downtown Highlands as presented and advocated by two representatives from the Chamber of Commerce.

I am sure it is politically incorrect to suggest that those two representatives have a conflict of interest, as they are both proprietors or co-proprietor of two of the most popular and successful businesses in town (which I admire; more power to them). The personal component of their advocacy is not my main objection. It is the suggestion itself, to light up down-town Highlands from October to April. Why stop there?

Highlands is not a fake town, not a phony town, not a Disneyland, a Dollywood, a “Potemkin Village.” It is a real place where real people live, work, raise families, attend church, help their neighbors, live their lives.

While we welcome visitors, tourists, day-trippers and support our local businesses, do our local businesses support us, the real people who live here 24/7, 365 days a year, or are the transient, temporary people more important to the Cham-ber of Commerce and to certain local businesses than we are, the full-time residents who pay for everything the visitors en-joy and from which all the Chamber businesses profit?

I do not want to pay for illuminating our town unneces-sarily, for creating a tacky destination and for depriving our trees, birds, bats and all the creatures, including humans, of a certain amount of darkness we all require to lead healthy lives. I would add that it also seems counter-intuitive to mak-ing Highlands a “Blue Zone” community as advocated by the mayor and his wife.

Are the environmentalists out there actually concerned about the environment or do mercenary instincts always take precedence?

If there is anyone else in this rapidly disappearing town of ours who is not happy about this purely commercial ini-tiative, it is not only your duty, but a privilege, to speak out publicly. Sitting around our kitchen tables and complaining to our friends has no effect whatsoever. It is a waste of breath. Step up and speak out.

Alice NelsonHighlands

...LETTER from page 2


THIS WEEK’S LUNCH FEATURES

PEPPERCORN CRUSTED TUNA NIÇOISE SALAD

VERMONT SALAD WITH GRILLED JOYCE FARMS BREAST OF PHEASANT

LEMON CHILI CAESAR SALAD WITH FRIED CHICKEN BREAST

GRUYERE GRILLED CHEESE & SAN MARZANO TOMATO SOUP

ITALIAN MEATBALL PARMESAN PANINI + lemon chili Caesar salad or grilled broccolini

JOYCE FARMS CHICKEN PARMESAN PANINI + lemon chili Caesar salad or grilled broccolini

BRAISED HERITAGE FARMS PORK PANINI+ lemon chili Caesar salad or grilled broccolini

GRILLED BROKEN ARROW RANCH ANTELOPE BURGER

+ crispy fries & chipotle ketchup

GRILLED AMERICAN WAGYU BEEF CHEESEBURGER + crispy fries & chipotle ketchup

BRAISED SHORT RIB “AMERICAN STREET TACOS”

JOYCE FARMS CHICKEN WINGS & FRIES

1 3 0 L o g C a b i n L a n e - 8 2 8 5 2 6 - 5 7 7 7

W W W . L o g C a b i n H i g h l a n d s . C O M

The LOG CABIN 1924 High lands , NC

1 3 0 L o g C a b i n L a n e 8 2 8 5 2 6 - 5 7 7 7

NOW OPEN FOR LUNCH!

STARTING FRIDAY, AUGUST 9TH

THURSDAY— SATURDAY

12 PM—3 PM

Outdoor seating—Weather permitting

The Log Cabin offers casual dining in a 1924 Joe Webb cabin.

Featuring fresh seafood, steaks and comfortable Italian.

Menus printed daily based on fresh, local & seasonal ingredients.

Unique dining experience withthree fireplaces, outdoor seating

and private dining.110 Log Cabin Lane • 828-526-5777 • www.LogCabinHighlands.com

- Highlands Newspaper - Thurs., Aug.,8 2019 - 828-200-1371

5 bedroom, 5 bath home with a view and end-of-the-road privacy. Completely furnished. Offered for $1,150,000 Contact Andrea Gabbard 828-200-6742.

Andrea Gabbardc 828.200.6742 o 828.526.8300 [email protected]

Wildcat Cliffs CC

Andrea is one of the top 25 Real Estate Brokers in 2018.

Highlands Sotheby’s International Realty is the top selling firm in Highlands

since 2013 as per HCMLS Navica.

• See INVESTING page 12

MeadowsMountainRealty.com828.526.1717

HIGHLANDS: 488 Main Street and2334 Cashiers Road

CASHIERS: 132 Highway 107 South

WILDWOOD MOUNTAIN Build your dream home on this near level wooded lot! Wildwood Mountain offers tennis courts, stocked lakes for fishing, and is a great walk-ing neighborhood as well. Conveniently located close to both Highlands and Cashiers. Three bedroom septic permit. OWNER MOTIVATED — BRING ALL OFFERS!

MLS# 91211 | Offered for $50,000

Dream HomeLot For Sale

Dream HomeLot For Sale

•inVesting at 4,118 Ft.•The ‘Lucys’ that are Highlands

Carl RombergLandmark Realty

Group BIC

Owning real estate as a second home and primary residence on

the plateau has brought to me some of the best things in my life. There have been many memories of outdoor activities or relaxing by a fire. Also, there have been numerous wonderful meals with friends; both new and old. These may have been at one of the many restaurants, at someone’s home, or just a picnic in this beautiful area. I met my husband here and was married at The Church of the Incarna-tion, the church that we now call home and share with full time and seasonal parishio-ners. And our family has celebrated numer-ous holidays together.

One of my favorite memories is very vivid and occurred back in the spring of 2008. My divorce had just occurred, and I had lost my 15 year-old cocker spaniel sev-eral months earlier. I was meeting a friend to go through one of the art shows in the park. As I parked, I noticed a medium size dog walking towards me and thought “that looks like the kind of dog I would like.” She was tan and white, short hair, cropped tail and had brown eyes that would pull you into her soul. She walked right up to me and then proceeded to follow us around the festival. My friend and I went to lunch and left her behind with all the other artists and patrons.

About 4:00 that afternoon, something told me I should go back and check on her. I walked right up and there she was ly-ing in the grass beside one of the artist’s tent. I was told that she had been there for hours. I asked several other artists and no one knew anything about her, other than she was hungry. She had trouble standing up, but I got her in the car and off we went to the house where I pulled about 25 ticks off of her. No reports of a missing dog came up, so we went back to Gainesville on Sunday afternoon. She sat upright, like a person, leaning against the seat so that she could look out and watch where we were going. I was thrilled that she didn’t get car sick.

A trip to the vet told me she was around 4 years old, had puppies at some point, but was parasite free. The soreness of standing up was probably from running a long distance and would improve over

time. My nieces heard that I had a dog and had to come see her. While visiting, one said that she looked like a “Lucy”. For some reason that seemed perfect, so it became her name. I was determined that she would be crate trained, espe-cially while I was at work and during the nights. She quickly adjusted to this and to being a house dog when not in her crate.

The first thing that I no-ticed about Lucy was that she

was always hungry. She ate extremely fast and always maintained a perfect weight of just 28 pounds according to the vet. She desperately wanted to achieve her goal weight of 50 pounds. As I was going to do this the right way, I served her breakfast as soon as she was out of the crate and din-ner at promptly at 6:30.

Lucy continued to go for rides. It didn’t matter if I was going to visit my Mom on Sunday afternoons, coming to Highlands for the weekend or going to Atlanta. She called shotgun unless some other passenger was along. She would still sit upright and look where we were going, until she figured out where that was and would then lay down for a nap.

As time passed by, she settled into a routine. The crate during the day, the sofa during the evening, then decided a wing chair was more appropriate at night. Breakfast would be when she jumped out of the wing chair and dinner would be at 6:15. Then she discovered the bed would be more appropriate as a place to spend the night and 6:00 would be better for din-ner. It was obvious that those brown eyes were in control.

At some point a local told me she was a Mountain Feist. I had never heard of this breed, but found that she fit the description and that the Southern Appa-lachian Mountains are one of their ances-tral homelands. They are great dogs, and sound like a hound when they bark, which was rare.

A couple years ago, we noticed her elbows were starting to point out, later to find out that it was rheumatoid arthri-tis. Next, we realized the one-mile walk through the neighborhood was too much for her. Her wing chairs and sofas were


Bud Katz

•WorD Matter•

Meticulously maintained, this home in the private gated Ravenel development is tucked away at road’s end in a tranquil, private setting where you can live in peace and quiet and still be right in town. The house backs up to protected Land Trust wooded property and the Fodderstack mountains on US Forest land. Easy walk to Ravenel’s gazebo with a beautiful view and to top of Sunset Rock. The house is elegantly simple with over 4,800 heated sq.ft. yet feels as intimate as a cottage. Main floor living area is open con-cept with vaulted ceiling and stacked stone wood burning fireplace in the living room. Master suite, laundry room, pantry, half bath, screened porch and an open deck are also on the main level. Lower level living area has a stacked stone gas fireplace, wet bar, full deck and two guest bedroom suites. Second lower level has a third living area, two guest bedroom suites and large workshop. Indeed a rare opportunity to be in Ravenel in a 5 bedroom, 5 ½ bathroom house for well under $3 million!

Offered for $2,400,000. MLS# 91397 Ellie Hogan, Broker • Cell 828-200-0488 • Office 828-526-5010

Country Club Properties

Rare in-town opportunity in prestigious Ravenel

Debates – Ugh!

Anytime I give in to the urge to write about politics I state, out

front, that my voter registra-tion is NPA. That means I have no political party affilia-tion. I dislike both parties and most people in politics.

My head hurts from watching two rounds of “de-bates” involving 20 Demo-cratic candidates pursuing their party’s nomination to run against Donald Trump in 2020. After nearly three years, I believe I know who Donald Trump is. I was already familiar with sev-eral of the Democratic candidates. Some were new to me. I wanted to see if anyone inspired me.

I’m still waiting. It seems the Democratic candidates

can be divided into two camps: the so-called progressive, “we can promise any-thing, regardless of what it costs” camp, and the so called traditional, “we can’t promise anything because it will cost way too much” camp. It’s exhausting.

When the President was a candidate he promised steel and coal jobs would come back. They haven’t. And, they’re not going to come back. He promised a bor-der wall paid for by Mexico. He may get his wall, but we’ll pay for it. He promised there would be so much winning that we’d get tired of all the winning. What have we won? We’ve angered our allies and played footsie with Vladimir Putin.

The Democrats, as a group, are telling us, “Elect me and you’ll get, a) all your stu-dent loans forgiven, b) free money, every month, for everyone, c) free college for anyone who wants to go, d) a government job for anyone who wants one, e) etc.

Here’s what neither the Democrats nor the President’s reelection campaign are telling you. The real battle is not for who wins the White House. The real battle is for control of the Senate. While we’re all distracted by the President’s tweets and the Democrats’ promises, the important races are down ballot. And, based on Mr. Trump’s win in 2016 and the Democrats’ taking of the House in 2018, everything is up for grabs.

What was disconcerting about these so-called debates was the circular firing squad approach the Democrats borrowed from the Republicans back in 2016. In

most cases, instead of offering positive messages about their own ideas for America, the candidates in both instances focused more on tearing one another down. I understand one must first get the nomina-tion before one can get elect-ed, and one must get elected before one can display Presi-dential leadership at home and in the world. But, following

these debates, do Democratic voters have any better idea who can actually win the general election? I don’t think so.

If I were a Democrat, which I am not, my first concern would be, not what are you going to give me for my support, but who has a shot at defeating Donald Trump? Based on the debates, at least right now, I don’t have a clue, and I suspect nei-ther do they.

As is the case almost every four years, the questions banging around in my head are, “Is this the best we can do?” “Are these the best we have?”

I’d like to hear discussion about what we’re going to do to improve education for our children and grandkids. I know states and local governments have a lot to say about that but so does the federal govern-ment. I’d like to know what we’re going to do about climate change, the single, for real, existential threat to our planet. I’d like to know what will be done to ensure voting rights for all Americans, an end to parti-san gerrymandering and voter suppression activities, and federal election campaign finance reform. I know these issues aren’t as sexy as healthcare or immigration, but they’re every bit important and no one is talking about them.

The President is going to have an enormous war chest with which to pummel whomsoever the Democrats settle on as their standard bearer. He’s got a loyal, en-trenched base and, he will have a record on which to run and on which to be opposed.

I suspect he knows that a percentage of those who voted for him in 2016 did so in opposition to Hillary Clinton. Those voters are in play for 2020, as are those who don’t care for the tone of his presidency. And, if they’re not already, all eyes should be on Texas and its 38 electoral votes. The Lone Star State is definitely in play.

Ain’t politics fun? No. Not really.


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...INVESTING from page 10slowly replaced by poofs, strategically located in the liv-ing room, bedroom and porch. For the last year or so, she was on pain medication, served in cheese, her favorite snack. Despite the pain, she was still able to push din-ner up to 5:45, and add a couple of pounds towards her goal weight, but continued to function fairly well. Lastly, getting up and out the door was a challenge, but she was always ready for food and welcome for assistance to get out.

A couple of weeks ago we realized the time had come. Saturday morning she had an extra big bowl of food and we went for a final ride. She sat up until she knew we were headed down the mountain then started her nap, or possibly faked it. The final moments were peaceful for her, but agonizing for us. Each day becomes a little easier and we will have other dogs, but not another Lucy. As it turns out, Lucy knew exactly what she was do-ing when she walked up to me that day long ago.

A special thanks to Dr. Brad and the staff at Ani-mal Wellness Hospital in Highlands as well as the staff at Rabun Animal Hospital in Mountain City.

• Carl Romberg is a full-time Highlands resident and the Broker in Charge of Landmark Realty Group’s High-lands Office located at 225 Main Street (the office with all the dog paintings and water bowl out front). Feel free to stop by and visit with him, or reach him at 678-936-9309 or [email protected]

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If your bank has gotten too big for you, has changed names, left you or just doesn’t have the same level of service that it used to, maybe it’s time to switch. I made the switch to Rabun County Bank, a locally owned, true hometown community bank.

Switching was easy! Our team of bankers is friendly, knowl-edgeable and ready to go to work for you! Don’t let our size fool you, we have 21st Century technology to meet your expectations as you travel or stay right here in the Highlands/Cashiers area. And, we offer common sense lending solutions that you can’t find at other local banks (lot, land, commercial and construction financing). Call me at 828-482-2370 and let’s talk!

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•reFLections FroM LorD Banjo •

DogSpeak

The Royal Pooch Lord Banjo

What’s wrong with my behavior?

Contrary to the opin-ions of my pet par-ents, I see nothing

wrong with my behavior. Take this statement from one of my Great Pyrenees Facebook friends: “I roam, I bark, and I don’t always listen, but I’ll guard you and love you forever and always.”

Now I ask, “What more could you want in a four-legged child?” Ac-cording to the Royal Par-ents—lots. First, the pow-ers of my bark collar seem to have diminished, no matter how snugly I wear it, and I am now able to bark when-ever and however long I like.

What triggers a bark? It can be some-thing as obvious as walkers on the street in front of the Royal Abode or deer in the driveway. On occasion, a leaf may fall from a tree, or as my Aunt Pam says about her dog, I may bark at an ant crawling on a blade of grass. As a vigilant guard dog, I must respond to all threats, even those un-seen by humans. Unfortunately, Mum and Dad don’t appreciate this trait, especially before dawn.

Next, I have taken to “going walk-about” as Mum says. For my readers who aren’t word nerds like Mum, “walkabout” is an Australian term for a journey taken by young Aboriginal males. Mum read it in one of her gazillion books and im-mediately saw it as a fitting term for my tendency to roam. When I learned that young men take this journey between the ages of 10-16, I thought it seemed even more apropos. I, after all, am twelve.

From the time I arrived at the Royal Abode at age two, I have had a tendency to wander. With our backyard electric fence, I’m able to go in and out our side door and contentedly roam the woods. My older adopted sister Tinker was well be-haved enough to be allowed in the front yard with Mum and Dad even though

there was no fence out there. She’d sniff and smell and stay close.

Not me! I’d go out the front door and stay close until my parents looked the other way. In a flash, I’d set sail out of the yard and take off down the street. Mum says that despite my rather large size, I seemed to jog up the embankment and float over the bushes. Hence the term “set sail.” I enjoyed those adventures. Dad? Not so much. He’d

chase after me, calling “Banjo, get back here right now; Banjo, come.” He said a few other things that can’t be printed in a family paper.

It only took a few of those episodes before I was banned from the front yard. My good behavior and failing eyesight, though, have recently earned me the privi-lege of visiting the front yard with Mum and Dad after dinner. I really don’t like go-ing out the side door when it’s dark and prefer the well-lit front door. All was fine until I started expanding my boundaries and taking my sweet time responding to the come command. My exploring the neighbor’s front yard was the last straw for Dad.

Now the debate at the Royal Abode is long and loud. “Do we drag him out the side door with a flashlight? Do we put a leash on him and walk him around the front yard? Whatever are we going to do with him?” My answer? Whatever makes me happy because “I roam, I bark, and I don’t always listen, but I’ll guard you and love you forever and always.” End of dis-cussion.

Lord Banjo lives in Georgia with his Mum, Kathy Manos Penn. Find simi-lar stories in his book, “Lord Banjo the Royal Pooch,” available at Mountain Paws in Highlands, Books Unlimited in Frank-lin, and on Amazon. Contact him at [email protected]

Little Highlander Cheer Camp is Saturday, Aug. 17 from 10a-3p for ages 4-to rising 6th graders. The camp will be held at the Highlands Recreation Department. The cost for the camp is $25 which includes a t-shirt and lunch. The camp will be ran by Kristin Huneycutt the Highlands School Cheerleading Coach.

Little Highlander Cheer Camp is Aug. 17


Ongoing• Summer Movies at the Play-

house Sundays 4 & 7 p.m.; Monday & Tuesday 1, 4, & 7 p.m.

• The Bascom is open Friday - Monday 10am -5pm (Sundays 12pm - 5pm). Visitors are welcome to en-joy the newly updated Story Walk Trail throughout the week.

• At the Highlands Recreation Dept. pool. Public Swim Monday-Thursday 11a-7p Friday and Satur-day 11a-6p and Sunday 1-6p.

Monday - Saturday • Mountain Findings Thrift

Store on Spruce Street is open from 10a to 4p.

• Fibber Magee’s Clothing Thrift Store on Laurel Street is open Tues.-Friday 10a to 4p and on Saturday from 10a to 2p.

First Mondays• Shortoff Baptist Church non-

denominational Men’s Mtg at 7p.Mondays• At the Nature Center. Free.

Garden Tour. 10:30am. Enjoy a walk through the Botanical Gardens

with our knowledgeable staff, view-ing beautiful native plant life in diverse habitats.

• At the Rec Park, Dance2Fit classes with Tori Schmitt at 5:30pm.

Mon. & Thurs.• The Joy Program at HUMC

11:30a to 1:30p. Includes a free lunch and a variety of programs and games. All seniors are welcome. For more info, call Tricia Smith at 828-338-8167.

Mon.-Wed.• Hip Hop classes with Tori

Schmitt 5:30-6:30. Mon. & Fri.• Gentle Yoga at the Rec park at

9:15-10:15 a.m.. All levels welcome.Mon., Wed., Fri.• Heart Healthy Exercise Class

Monday, Wednesday and Friday 8:30am-9:30am.

• Step Aerobics with Tina Rogers 8-9a.

Mon., Wed., Thurs.• Pickle Ball at the Recreation

Department Gym 10:30am -1pmTuesdays• At the Nature Center. Free.

Turtle and Toad Feeding. 11:30am. View our live animals at their most active -- feeding time!

• FREE Community Table Dinner at the Community Bldg. at 6p.

• The Highlands Writers Group meets Tuesday, at 3pm in the down-stairs boardroom at The Bascom. Writers at all levels of proficiency are welcome. For additional information, contact Bud Katz, 828-526-3190 or [email protected].

• The Humanist Discussion Group meets from 10:30-11:30 am in the Meeting Room at the back of the Hudson Library.

Third Tuesday• The Macon County Poultry

club meets to discuss topics related to raising backyard chickens. For more information please call 828-349-2046 or 828-369-3916.

• Highlands Area Indivisible Group meets at 5 pm in the Meet-ing Room at the back of the Hudson Library.

Lunch with the Docs at High-lands-Cashiers Hospital noon to 1 p.m. RSVP to Kara Miller at 828-526-1345. Limited to 50 attendees.

Tuesday and Thursdays• At the Rec Park, Dance2Fit

with Tori Schmitt at 7:30am.• Exercise Class with Michelle

Lane at 5:30. A combination class with many different styles of exercise at Rec Park.

Wednesdays

• At the Nature Center. Free. Mad Science. 2:30pm. Try your hand at scientific inquiry with a brief hands-on program aimed at youth ages 7+ (younger ages OK with su-pervision).

• At Community Bible Church, 5-5:30p - Dinner – Free (Donations Appreciated) 5:45-7p - G.R.O.W. Get Real on Wednesdays – Classes offered on money management, ad-diction, discovering your spiritual gifts and personality type, studying the bible, evangelism, parenting, mar-riage, grief, and more. All are wel-come! Visit www.cbchighlands.com.

• Power Flow Yoga with Nalicia Allio a certified Yoga Instructor 12-1pm and 6:30-7:30pm.

First Wednesdays• Family Movies at the Hudson

Library at 3:30pm. Call 828-526-3031 for titles.

3rd Wednesdays• Recently released movies at

Hudson Library at 2pm. Call 828-526-3031 for titles.

Wed. & Fri.• Highlands/Cashiers Alcohol-

ics Anonymous “Open Meetings” are for anyone who thinks they may have a drinking problem or for any-one interested in the A.A. recovery program. Open meetings are held in Highlands @ the 1st Presbyterian Church, 471 Main St., on Wednesday & Fridays at noon. And held six times a week in Cashiers at the Church of the Good Shepherd, Rte 107, Ca-shiers. For meeting times in Cashiers visit our website www.aawnc80.org or to speak with a member of A.A. call (828) 349-4357.

• Duplicate Bridge 12-4pm at Rec Park.

Thursdays•Through July 18, The Church

of the Incarnation Grief Support Group Thursdays, from 4 – 5:30, The group will not meet on July 4th. The purpose of the group is to offer support for those suffering from life transitions, such as terminal illness, death of family or close friend, mis-carriage, and relationship or job loss.

• At the Nature Center. Free. Exploration Hike 2:30pm. Visit for-ests, streams, and other spots across our campus, experiencing unique habitats and honing your observa-tion skills.

• Storytime at Hudson Library, 10:40 am. Open to the public

• Kids Zone at Hudson Library, 3:30

• NAMI Support Group for in-

dividuals dealing with mental illness and the family members of individu-als dealing with these challenges from 7 – 8:15pm at First United Methodist Church Out Reach Cen-ter on West Main Street in Franklin Call Donita (828) 526-9510.

• Hip Hop classes with Tori Schmitt at 6:30-7:30 at the Rec Park.

2nd Thursdays• Sapphire Valley Needlepoint

Guild meets at the Highlands Rec Park at 10 a.m.

3rd Thursdays• Kidney Smart Classes in

Franklin: from 4:30-6pm, Angel Medical Center, Video Conference Room, 3rd Floor, 120 Riverview St. Contact Majestic 828-369-9474

Fourth Thursday• At the Hudson Library, Kids

Zone LEGO Club. Intended primar-ily for kids in grades 1-5, LEGO Club allows creativity and STEM skills to develop together as kids enjoy mak-ing LEGO creations.

Fridays• At the Nature Center. Free.

Turtle and Snake Feeding. 11:30am. View our live animals at their most active -- feeding time!

• Live music in Town Square from 6-8 p.m.

First Fridays• The Bascom at Sotheby’s se-

ries features different artists each month with a reception the first Friday of every month at Highlands Sotheby’s International Realty from 4-5:30p at the corner of Main Street and Highway 64 across from The Old Edwards Inn. The public is in-vited to come meet the artist, view the exhibit and have some wine.

• At the Rec Park Pool. Movie Float-in Night - all ages Pool opens at 6:30p and movie starts at 7 p.m. Call for movie title and prices. 526-1595.

Fourth Friday• Community Coffee with May-

or Pat Taylor at the Hudson Library in the Meeting Room from 11a until noon.

Friday - Monday • At the Bascom, 10am - 5pm

(Sundays 12pm - 5pm): Free Admis-sion to exhibition spaces and SmArt Space for children. For more infor-mation call 828-526-4949.

Saturdays• At The Bascom, Pottery Sale

in the barn from 10a to 5p.• The Bascom Knitters on the

Terrace at The Bascom from 10 am until noon or downstairs in The Bas-

•highLanDs area eVents •Art Glass Creations Summer

Sale 80%'{)Jf

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260 Franklin Rd828-526-9292HIGHLANDS HISTORIC VILLAGE

WALK THROUGH HIGHLANDS HISTORY

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MAJOR EXHIBITS: • Prince House Circa 1877• Museum - 4,000 Artifacts• Old Jail - 1918• Lapham Tent House 1908

MEMORIAL WEEKEND THROUGH OCTOBER www.highlandshistory.com

524 N. 4th Street I 828-787-1050


com Library room.• At the Nature Center. Free. Creature

Feature. 11:30am & 2:30pm. Experience one or more of our live animal ambassadors up close while learning about their fascinating adaptations.

• Free music in the K-H Founders Park on Pine Street 6-8 p.m.

Sundays• Live Music in OEI’s Hummingbird

Lounge 8 p.m. to close with Paul Jones.• Church in the Wildwood, hymn sing-

ing each Sunday through Labor Day weekend from 7-8 p.m.

Though Aug 17• At the Playhouse, “Always, Patsy Cline.”

For ticket call 828-526-2695 or go to high-landsplayhouse.org.

Thurs., Aug. 8• At CLE American Foreign Policy and

Presidential Leadership Time: 10-12 Cost $25/$35 Presenter: Ira Cooperman. To reg-ister call 828-526-8811.

• Zahner Lecture Series “An Alfred Rus-sel Wallace Companion” at the Nature Cen-ter at 6 p.m. Free.

Aug. 9-11 • At Acorns on S. 4th Street, a Planet

Clothing and Simon Pearce Trunk Show from 10a to 5p.

“A Midsummer Night’s Dream” at the Franklin library on Siler Farm Road, Fri. through Sun. 7:30 p.m. and 2 p,m. on Sunday,

Fri. Aug. 9• At CLE Women and Islam Time: 2-4

Cost $25/$35 Presenter: Michelle Browers. To register call 828-526-8811.

• Live music at Town Square from 6-8 p.m. Johnny Webb Band

Sat. Aug. 10• Live music at K-H Founders Park on

Pine Street. 6-8 p.m. STIG“Sunday Drive” (a Billboard Christian

Top 30 Artist) will perform at 6pm “at Patton UMC, 112 Patton Church Road in Franklin.

Mon., Aug. 12 • At CLE More Peril or Promise? Youth

in the Middle East and North Africa Time: 10-12 Cost $25/$35 Presenter: Michelle Brow-ers. To register call 828-526-8811.

• At CLE Food, Wine and French Na-tional Identity Time: 2-4 Cost $25/$35 Pre-senter: Lloyd Kramer. To register call 828-526-8811.

Tues., Aug. 13• At CLE American Travelers and the

Formation of Our National Identity Time: 10-12 Cost $25/$35 Presenter: Lloyd Kram-er. To register call 828-526-8811.

Wed., Aug. 14• At the Episcopal Church of the Incarna-

tion, Organ Inuguration Concert at 7:30 p.m. with Dr. Kirk M,. Rich, organist.

Thurs., Aug. 15• Zahner Lecture Series “Forests of the

Southern Appalachians” at the Nature Center

•highLanDs eVents •at 6 p.m. Free.

• Lunch wth the Docs at H-C Hospital noon to 1p. You’re never too young for ad-vanced Directives with Dr Robyn Restrepo. RSVP to 526-1345.

Fri. Aug. 16• At CLE Sherman, Grady and the Making

of Atlanta Time: 10-12 Cost $25/$35 Present-er: Cully Clark. To register call 828-526-8811.

• Live music at Town Square from 6-8 p.m. Tallulah River Bankd

Sat., Aug. 17• Little Highlander Cheer Camp from

10a-3p for ages 4-to rising 6th graders. The camp will be held at the Highlands Recreation Department. The cost for the camp is $25 which includes a t-shirt and lunch. The camp will be ran by Kristin Huneycutt the Highlands School Cheerleading Coach.

Mon., Aug. 19• At CLE Spain: From Franco and Fas-

cism to a Modern Democracy Time: 2-4 Cost $25/$35 Presenter: Santiago Garcia-Castanon. To register call 828-526-8811.

• At CLE Spanish Tapas Time: 5-7 Cost $90/$100 Chef: Melissa Pelkey-Hass. To regis-ter call 828-526-8811.

Tues., Aug. 20• At CLE Data Mining: How Do They

Know What I Like? Time: 10-12 Cost $25/$35 Presenter: Keith Osher. To register call 828-526-8811.

Wed., Aug. 21• At CLE World War I: One Hundred

Years Later Time: 10-12 Cost $25/$35 Pre-senter: Vejas Liulevicius. To register call 828-526-8811.

Thurs., Aug. 22• MC Board of Elections Educational

Seminar on Voter ID requirements for 2020 election at 10 am. at the Highlands Civic Cen-ter. Also at 6 p.m. at the Frankln Comunity buidling on the Georgia Road.

• At CLE Can Mankind Be Trusted with Control Over Its Own DNA? Time: 2-4 Cost $25/$35 Presenters: Jill Granger. To register call 828-526-8811.

• Highlands School Open House for all students is Thursday, 4-6 p.m.

• Zahner Lecture Series “The Plant-Polli-nator Love Affair That Keeps Our Planet Hum-ming” at the Nature Center at 6 p.m. Free.

Fri., Aug. 23• Live music at Town Square from 6-8 p.m.

Frank and AllieSat. Aug. 24• Live music at K-H Founders Park on Pine

Street. 6-8 p.m. The Manor and FriendsSat. & Sun., August 24 & 25• The Village Square Art & Craft Show

brings together top notch artists and crafters from around the mountains for two days of family fun, food and music. 10 to 5 both days, rain or shine. FREE. K-H Founders Park, Pine St. in Highlands. Sponsored by Mountaintop Ro-tary of Highlands. For info call (828) 787-2021.

212 South 4th Street | 828.787.1877

AUGUST 9 - 11 • 10 am - 5 pm Trunk Shows

Planet Clothing & Simon Pearce

Lamb added that creating the addition-al teams was not a huge burden on school resources.

“Cross country, swimming, and golf do not require a great deal of funds,” said Lamb. “The Booster Club has helped with offsetting some additional costs, as well as a great community that supports our kids like Highlands Rec Park for swim and Highlands Country Club for golf.”

Girls golf starts its season on Aug. 20, but the team began practicing on Monday at Highlands Country Club. Coach Brian Stiehler said he is looking forward to what this season brings.

“I have a great group that is eager to play, and I’m looking forward to encour-aging them on a game they can play their whole life,” he said. “I’m excited to see them play well and have fun.”

Newcomer to the Highlands School athletic scene is Social Studies Teacher Ca-leb Brown who is also taking the helm of boys’ varsity soccer team.

“I’m looking forward to it, they have great attitudes and I have high expecta-tions,” said Brown. “We’re a younger team, so there’s room to grow and develop.”

Brown, who came from Columbia, SC

to teach at Highlands, said he’s always had a passion for soccer, and this is another way to interact with the students outside of the classroom.

Girls varsity and JV volleyball teams were on the court Monday and Head Coach Katy Postell said things are looking good moving forward.

“We’ve got leaders like Kedra McCall, Jeslyn Head, and Jordan Carrier coming back, and we’ve got 10 new players, seven who have never played before,” said Postell. “And the new players are catching on beau-tifully.”

Postell added that the girls were not required to adhere to any physical regiment over the summer. Most of them spent sum-mer in a gym playing other travel and camp sports, so there was no need to double-up.

“Honestly, both teams are looking so good,” she said. “We’re already in better shape than we were at this time last year.”

Highlands girls’ varsity golf competes at Highlands Country Club against Franklin on Aug. 20.

Highlands varsity soccer plays East Henderson at 6 p.m. at home on Aug. 19.

Highlands varsity volleyball plays at 5 p.m. away against Hayesville on Aug. 20.

...SPORTS continued from page 1


...PARTNERING continued from page 1

The Ory Sink Main Street Highlands, NC

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Daughter of the Dawn takes you to a remote island—not so long ago. Through a child’s eyes, author Avary Hack Doubleday describes private hunting clubs on the island, evacuat-ing for a hurricane, and lessons learned in a one-room schoolhouse. As Avary paints her memories she reveals the characters of her parents which led them to this adventure and which molded her own character as she grew up at the dawn of the development of Hilton Head Island.

•oBituary•Christine ‘Christy’ Kelly

Christine “Chris-ty” Kelly, 69, of Scaly Mountain, NC passed away Wednesday, July 31, 2019.

Born in Miami, FL she was the daughter of the late Frank Kelly and Bebe Ann Randall Kelly. In addition to her par-ents, she was preceded in death by her daughter, Molly Meiring.

Christy was a member of Our Lady of the Mountains Catholic Church in Highlands, NC. She loved to volunteer, serv-ing as a past President of Rotary Club, lobbying for American Cancer Society, and helping with Highlands Public Schools and the

Literacy Council.She is survived

by her companion, Jim Meiring of Scaly Mountain, NC; five children, Kelly Barba-to of Highlands, NC, Erin Sullivan (Kevin) of Durham, NC, Kate Riechmann (Tim) of

Jacksonville, FL, Casey Case (Brandon) of Atlanta, GA, and Joseph Daniel Meiring (Kim) of Austin, TX; four sisters, Pamela Ruth “PR” Kelly of San Rafael, CA, Randi Kelly of Boulder, CO, Terry Stottlemyer (Steve) of Sara-sota, FL, and Linda Parrish of Highlands, NC; four grandchil-dren, Nora Ashby, Addis Mae,

Rosalee Joan, Wren, Jayden, and Jonah; and several nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Service was held Saturday, August 3 at High-lands First Presbyterian Church. Kevin M. Sullivan, Minister Emily Wilmarth, Minister Cur-tis Fussel, and Deacon Scott McNabb officiated.

In lieu of flowers, memo-rial donations can be made to American Cancer Society, PO Box 22478, Oklahoma City, OK 73123.

Macon Funeral Home han-dled the arrangements. Condo-lences can be made to the family at www.maconfuneralhome.com

Fiber House Bill 431, have stalled, the Town of Highlands has been working on building a broadband fiber optic network for the last five years,” said Taylor. “We are not talking about it anymore; we have signed a contract for $4.6 million and are partnering with a private

provider, Wide Open Networks.”According to Taylor the pro-

vider will be investing a substantial amount of money to help build a network that will provide fiber to every business and home in Highlands. He anticipates the in-vestment will also provide an op-portunity for Highlands to partner with other areas in the county to expand broadband between Scaly Mountain and Highlands which would create an opportunity for the Otto community to hook onto the network.

The contractor has 300 days to complete the building of the network. Taylor said the only problem is that the big fiber bundles are on backorder because of the high demand; however, in the meantime work is being com-pleted building outside of the net-work’s central hub.

Taylor also said a partnership between Highlands, Franklin and the county commission may pre-vent truckers from using the gorge road.

“Trucks on the gorge road are a real problem for both of our communities,” said Taylor. “It takes one trucker who doesn’t pay attention to the signs and gets stuck on that gorge road to create a tremendous amount of prob-lems. My goal is to stop the truck-ers from using the gorge road.”

Taylor said the North Caro-lina Department of Transporta-tion (NCDOT) has appropri-ated money to install a radar activated system in Highlands and in Franklin in front of the turnaround. If a large truck ap-proaches, the signs’ flashing lights will be activated and will instruct truckers to go down NC 106 or use the turnaround. The radar system should be in place within the next month.

According to Taylor, the NCDOT has also suggested cameras be installed on both ends of the gorge road to photo-graph truckers going by the signs and continuing down the road. The cameras would allow state highway patrol or local police to document truckers who willingly drive past the warning signs and continue down (or up) the road. The use of the cameras would require special local legislation to be passed in the North Carolina legislature. Mayors Taylor and Scott are working with Represen-tative Kevin Corbin, Senator Jim Davis and Brian Burch, Engineer for NCDOT Division 14, to gain legislation to permit the use of cameras on that stretch of road.

Taylor also shared how Highlands is becoming a “bear wise community” to address the

• See PARTNERING page 22

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...TALE continued from page 18

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Presbyterian churches on Main Street, but you’ll be hard-pressed to locate one outside town limits. Cashiers even has a rare Angli-can church. What do they sig-nify? Wealth, class, and education mostly. Catholics? Methodists? They’re usually townies in the mountains but, on back roads, it’s all about Baptists. All kinds of them. You can also find a few As-sembly of God, Adventist, and Jehovah’s Witness congregations clustered around the plateau. In North Carolina, fundamental-ist, evangelistic, and Pentecostal churches no matter their names have melded into a kind of folk religion that has a shared sense of values that differs markedly from mainstream, mainline denomina-tional churches.

Yet there is another culture here on the plateau as well, one now in the shadows but quickly emerging, that of Latinos. Now you see them, now you don’t. Along with summer people, His-panics have substantially pro-pelled North Carolina’s and the plateau’s growth. Between 2019 and 2022, it is estimated that per-

haps as much as 25% of North Carolina’s economic GDP will be directly attributed to Latinos. In 2012, they owned perhaps 34,900 businesses and increasing, had a purchasing power of approxi-mately $385 million, and a younger labor force that, in some counties like Macon and Jackson, often make up perhaps 20% of workers. In Highlands, for example, you’ll see new Hispanic businesses in trades like painting, tree service, landscaping, and mom and pop restaurants.

Look closely at demographics and you will find that, more and more, Latinos like calling North Carolina home as much as natives. Each year, more stay in Franklin or around Cashiers and do not return to South Carolina, Georgia, or to Mexico or Central America. Over-whelmingly male, they have not yet impacted schools as they have in counties like Charlotte-Mecklen-burg or Pembroke but they even-tually will. For now, they’re Ameri-cans on parole, anxiously waiting to be accepted into mainstream society.

Yet what does this stew of

cultures mean for the Highlands plateau? For now, it works well for everyone. Still, this heady mix contains within it seeds of its own destruction, namely nativ-ism, distrust, suspicion, differing social values and language, and, at some point, a competition for jobs and political power, all poten-tially brought on by an economic downturn or political convulsion. Until then, let’s all enjoy a spiced-up lifestyle, some good bluegrass music, a taco or two, and celebrate that which is foreign to all of us.

• Retired Professor of History, UNC at Asheville, author of several works of “The Tar Heel State: A History of North Carolina” with “A New History of North Carolina” com-ing out later this year, also of “Remem-bering Asheville” and “Mystical Madi-son,” several works of fiction including “Oh Carolina!” about early North and South Carolina, lots and lots of articles published mostly in North Carolina and Georgia, former Army Ranger and combat commander ending my service as a Captain, 4th degree black belt in traditional Korean tae kwon do. He spends much of my summer in High-lands for all the obvious reasons.

• See TALE page 17


Proverbs 3:5 • PLaces to WorshiP •BLUE VALLEY BAPTIST CHURCHRev. Oliver Rice, Pastor (706) 782-3965

Sundays: School:10 a.m., Worship:11 Sunday night services every 2nd & 4th Sunday at 7

Wednesdays: Mid-week prayer meeting:7 p.m.BUCK CREEK BAPTIST CHURCH

828-269-3546 • Rev. Jamie Passmore, PastorSundays: School:10 a.m.; Worship:11

CHAPEL OF THE SKYSky Valley, GA • 706-746-2999

Sundays: 10 a.m.:Worship Holy Communion 1st & 3rd Sundays

Church in the WildwoodHorsecove Road • 1-828-506-0125

Hymn singing Sundays through Labor Day Weekend7-8 p.m.

CHRIST ANGLICAN CHURCH Rector: Jim Murphy, 252-671-4011

464 US Hwy 64 east, Cashiers 8:30a Early Service; 9:30a Sunday School; 10:30a Worship

Service; Mon. 6p Bible Study & Supper in homesCHRIST CHURCH OF THE VALLEY, CASHIERS

Pastor Brent Metcalf • 743-5470Sun.10:45am, S.S 9:30am. Wed. 6pm supper and teaching.

Tues. Guys study 8am, Gals 10am.CHRISTIAN SCIENCE CHURCH

283 Spring Street - Sunday Service: 11 a.m.Testimony meeting: 3rd Wednesday at 5 p.m. CLEAR CREEK BAPTIST CHURCH

Pastor Jim KinardSundays: School:10 a.m.; Worship:11a.m. 1st & 3rd Sunday night Service: 7.p.m.

Wednesdays –Supper at 6 p.m. COMMUNITY BIBLE CHURCHwww.cbchighlands.com • 526-4685

3645 Cashiers Rd, Highlands, NC • Sr. Pastor Gary Hewins Sun.: 9:30am: Sunday School10:30am: Middle & High School;

10:45am: Child. Program,10: 45am: Worship ServiceWed.: 5pm Dinner ($7 adult, $2 child), 6pm CBC U.

EPISCOPAL CHURCH OF THE INCARNATIONRev. W. Bentley Manning • 526-2968

Monday-Friday: Morning Prayer at 8:15a. Sundays: 8 am Holy Eucharist Rite I; 9 am Sunday School; 10:30 am Holy

Eucharist Rite II. Childcare available at 10:30FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH HIGHLANDS

828-526-4153 • www.fbchighlands.orgDr. Mark Ford, Pastor• 220 Main Street, Highlands Sun.:Worship 10:45 am; Sun.: Bible Study 9:30 am

Wed.: Men’s Bible Study 8:30 am; Prayer Mtg 6:15 pm; Choir 5p

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCHCurtis Fussell & Emily Wilmarth, pastors

526-3175 • fpchighlands.orgSun.: Worship 8:30a Adult Ed.: 9:30a.m.; Worship 11 a.m.

Mondays: Men’s Prayer Group & Breakfast 8 a.m. Wed.:Choir:6p

GOLDMINE BAPTIST CHURCH(Off Franklin/Highlands Rd)

Sunday School:10 am, Worship Service:11 amGRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH OF CASHIERS

Non-Denominational-Contemporary Worship242 Hwy 107N, 1/4 miles from Crossroads in Cashiers

www.gracecashiers.com • Pastor Steve Doerter: 743-9814Services: Sundays 10am - Wed. - 7pm; Dinner - Wed. 6pm

HAMBURG BAPTIST CHURCH

Hwy 107N. • Glenville, NC • 743-2729 • Nathan JohnsonSunday: School 9:45a, Worship 11a & 7p, Bible Study 6p

Wed. Kidsquest 6p.; Worship 7p.HIGHLANDS ASSEMBLY OF GOD

Randy Reed, Pastor828-421-9172 • 165 S. Sixth Street Sundays: Worship:11

HIGHLANDS CENTRAL BAPTIST CHURCHPastor Dan Robinson

670 N. 4th Street (next to the Highlands Civic Center)Sun.: Bible Study 10a; Morning Worship 10:45a., Evening

Worship, 6p. Wednesday: Prayer Service, 6:30 p.HIGHLANDS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

Pastor Randy Lucas 526-3376Sun: School 9:45a.; Worship 9:09,10:50.; Youth 5:30 p.

Wed: Supper: 5:15; youth, & adults activities: 6; Handbell rehearsal, 6:15; Choir Rehearsal 7. (nursery provided ); 7pm

Intercessory Prayer Ministry HOLY FAMILY LUTHERAN CHURCH: ELCA

Chaplain Margaret Howell • 2152 Dillard Road • 526-9741Sun: School and Adult discussion group 9:30 a.m.;

Worship/Communion:10:30 HEALING SERVICE on the 5th Sunday of the month.

MACEDONIA BAPTIST CHURCH8 miles south of Highlands on N.C. 28 S in Satolah

Pastor Zane TalleySundays: School:10 a.m.; Worship:11, Choir:6 p.m.

Wed: Bible Study and Youth Mtg.:7 p.m.MOUNTAIN SYNAGOGUE

at St. Cyprian’s Episcopal Church, Franklin • 828-524-9463MOUNTAIN BIBLE CHURCH

743-2583 • Independent Bible Church Sun:10:30 a.m. at Big Ridge Baptist Church,

4224 Big Ridge Road (4.5 miles from NC 107) Weds: Bible Study 6:30 p.m.; Youth Group 6 p.m.

OUR LADY OF THE MOUNTAINS CATHOLIC CHURCH

Rev. Jason K. Barone – 526-2418Mass: Sun: 11 a.m.; Sat. at 4p

SCALY MOUNTAIN BAPTIST CHURCHRev. Marty Kilby

Sundays: School –10 a.m.; Worship –11 a.m. & 7 Wednesdays: Prayer Mtg.:7 p.m.

SCALY MOUNTAIN CHURCH OF GOD290 Buck Knob Road; Pastor Donald G. Bates • 526-3212Sun.: School:10 a.m.; Worship:10:45 a.m.; Worship: 6 p.m.

SHORTOFF BAPTIST CHURCHPastor Rev. Andy Cloer

Sundays: School:10 a.m.; Worship:11 a.m. Wednesdays: Prayer & Bible Study:6 p.m.

COMMUNITY BIBLE CHURCH OF SKY VALLEY706.746.3144• 696 Sky Valley Way #447, Pastor Gary HewinsWorship: Sun. 9 a.m., with Holy Communion the 1st & 3rd Sun.; Tues: Community Supper 5:30 followed by Bible Study.

THE CHURCH OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD1448 Highway 107 South, Office: 743-2359 • Rev. Rob Wood

June-Sept: Sunday Services: Rite I, 8a, Rite II, 9:15 & 11aNursery available for Rite II services

Sept 6-Oct 25-Informal Evening Eucharist-5:30 p.m. Thursday: Noon Healing Service with Eucharist.

UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST FELLOWSHIP 85 Sierra Drive, Franklin • uufranklin.org

Sunday Worship - 11 a.m. WHITESIDE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

Rev. Sam Forrester/CashiersSunday School:10 am, Worship Service:11 am

John 3:16The Summer People and Natives: A tale of two

culturesBy Milton Ready

If you live on the Highlands plateau that generously includes Cashiers, Glenville, Franklin, and Highlands then you seasonally experience a clash of two cultures,

one of foreigners, summer people, and another of locals. As the late President Lyndon Johnson supposedly once re-marked, foreigners “aren’t like most folks I know,” a crucial distinction to locals.

In Highlands, you see that every summer when the pla-teau is inundated with “foreigners” mostly from Atlanta, Columbia, Greenville, all over Florida, and, of course, La-tinos from everywhere. Yet the cultural mix not only seems to work, it appears to benefit everyone if not equally. That’s called capitalism or, on a larger scale, globalism, and we’re right in the middle of both on this historically isolated pla-teau.

Did you know North Carolinians love trucks as much if not more than any other state? In 2016, the state reg-istered 4,496,137 trucks, 3,546,263 automobiles, 195,618 motorcycles, and 32,525 buses. Although the mythic nos-talgia of Thunder Road, NASCAR, and moonshining exist and are exploited and exported to foreigners, locals know it’s mainly about trucks, not sculpted stock cars. All kinds of trucks, big, small, tall, rusty, dirty, not very new, some really old, bad mufflers and good baffles, and with almost anything thrown in the truck bed, beer bottles, trash, scrap lumber, tools, a kid or a cousin or two, and even a some-times-chained junk yard dog. Don’t dare peer into a window or look in a truck bed. Sometimes a good truck might even cost more than a tolerable double wide.

Still, you won’t find many trucks with Florida license plates. Instead, look for those on Mercedes, Lexus, BMW, Audi, Cadillac, Infiniti, and Land Rover sedans. Do they also have dogs inside? Many do, but not exactly junkyard variety with names like Kujo, Brutus, Butch, Harley or Callahan from the movie Dirty Harry. They’re more likely called Gigi, Coco, Caramel Frappuccino, Sassy, and Chloe and have better medical care than most mountaineers. Con-vertibles? Here on the Highlands plateau? Really? Guess who owns them? Yes, cars and trucks are a cultural marker between summer people and natives but only one of many.

Where do you dine or eat? Madison’s at the Old Ed-wards? An Italian bistro called Paoletti? Wolfgang’s? Sound foreign, don’t they? Or at the Smoke House or Ugly Dog? Slab Town Pizza or Wendy’s? The local loco Mexican res-taurant? How many trendy bistros or BBQ places do you frequent? Do you have a power breakfast or lunch or a sau-sage biscuit from a local convenience store? Gluten free or not? Springer’s free-range grilled chicken or anything caged and fried? Do you care about a “perfectly prepared white caper sauce” with your salmon or whether your French fries are hot and salty? What about your porky preferences? Bacon on everything or apple smoked from “high on the hog?” In the mountains, what and where you eat smacks of cultural differences.

Then there are churches, lots of them here in the moun-tains. Where you worship distinguishes you perhaps more than what you drive, eat, or how you dress. For example, in Highlands you’ll find impressive historic Episcopalian and


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•PoLice & Fire rePorts•Highlands Police entries from July

23. Only the names of persons arrest-ed, issued a Class-3 misdemeanor or public officials have been used.

July 23• At 9:04 p.m., officers were called

about a fight ensuing over possession of a truck at a residence on Dogwood Drive.

July 25• At 6:43 a.m., officers responded to

a 2-vehicle accident on NC 106 and Cobb Road.

• At 9:32 a.m., officers were called about vandalism to Fibber MaGee’s Closet on Laurel Street where a security light was damaged.

• At 11:55 a.m., officers responded to a 2-vehicle accident on Oak Street at Town Hall.

July 28• At 2:45 p.m., officers responded to a

1-vehicle accident in the Historical Village parking lot.

July 29• At 1:15 a.m., Justin Aaron Ortiz, 25,

from Mountain Rest, SC, was arrested on drug/narcotic violations after police were called to the Highlands Community Build-ing about someone possessing narcotics. He was issued a $3,000 bond. His trial date is Aug. 13.

• At 4:45 p.m., officers were called about a shoplifting event at The Christmas Tree on Main Street where a metal snow-man ornament valued at $21.95 was taken.

July 31• At 3:15 p.m., officers responded to a

2-vehicle accident at Reeves Hardware.• At 8 p.m., officers responded to a

1-vehicle accident on Raoul Road and Oak Lane.

The Highlands Fire & Rescue log from July 20

July 20• At 3:52 p.m., the dept. provided public

assistance to a residence on Half Mile Drive,• At 7:03 p.m. ,the dept. was first-re-

sponders to a residence on Highlands Walk.July 21• At 9:20 a.m., the dept. responded to a

fire at the Playhouse .

Open Everyday!

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(828) 526-4818On the corner of 3rd & Spring

• At 7:47 p.m., the dept. was first-re-sponders to a residence on Mayflower Drive,

July 22• At 8:44 p.m., the dept. provided first-

responders to a residence on Valentine Drive.

• At 9:28 p.m. ,the dept. was called to stand by for the MAMA helicopter at the ballfield but the call was cancelled.

July 27• At 8:56 a.m., the dept. provided public

assistance at a location on Horse Cove Road,

• At 11:12 a.m., the dept. was first-responders to a location on Horse Cove Road.

• At 2:47 p.m., the dept. was first-re-sponders to a residence on Kelsey Court.

• At 5:47 p.m., the dept. responded to a motor vehicle accident on NC 28 south,

July 28• At 2:52 p.m., the dept. was first-re-

sponders to a residence on Bull Pen Road,• At 4:27 p.m., the dept. investigated

the source of smoke on Foreman Road.

...FOREST SERVICE continued from page 1rights-of-way.

They say the Forest Service must legal-ly consider public comments on this pro-posal, but if the proposal passes, this could be the last chance to comment on nearly all Forest Service proposals.

The proposed new rules would allow the Forest Service to authorize most proj-ects using Categorical Exclusion (CE). It would also eliminate public notice require-ments for CEs and Environmental Assess-ments (EAs). This means that the Forest Service could conduct thousands of acres of timber harvests with only a note buried in the agency’s “schedule of proposed ac-tions” and post it online long after decisions have been made and shortly before imple-mentation begins, they say.

Why is the Forest Service proposing this?

According to its website, the Forest Service last updated its National Environ-mental Policy Act (NEPA) regulations in 2008. Since then, challenges like extended droughts, insect infestations and diseases have made the effort to protect people, communities and resources from threats

like catastrophic wildfires even more dif-ficult. Together, these challenges have strained available staff and resources across all its mission areas.

The Forest Service says the proposed rule will help it make timelier decisions based on high quality, science-based analysis which will improve its ability to get work on the ground done while meeting its environ-mental stewardship responsibilities.

They say the updates in the proposed rule incorporate lessons learned and experi-ence gained from its staff and partners over the past 10 years and is the result of robust input from agency personnel, the public, and other stakeholders.

However, the Conservancy claims the proposed rule change would allow the fol-lowing practices without public input or en-vironmental review: commercial logging up to 4,200 acres; building up to five miles of new roads at one time, and closing access roads used by the public for hunting, fish-ing, recreation; and bulldozing new pipeline, utility rights-of-way, and other “special uses” that are up to 20 acres in size.

Along with excluding the public, they say these decisions could also be made without critical environmental review and without considering alternative methods to meet the same project objectives.

“The Forest Service argues the new rules will ‘increase efficiency of environ-mental analysis’ because it believes it is wasting time with public comments and environmental review. However, we know from experience that the Forest Service often proposes ill-conceived projects that include logging old growth, rare habitats, pristine wilderness, highly erosive slopes, and cherished recreational areas,” says the Conservancy.

They says it’s not the public that is slowing Forest Service projects down, it’s the lack of funding and resources to con-duct the necessary level of analysis.

“The Forest Service must not be al-lowed to conduct controversial projects without being held accountable to the pub-lic. Now could be our last opportunity to speak up.”

Comments are due August 12, 2019. Submit using the guided tool at OurForestOurVoice.org.

– Kim Lewicki

Allan Dearth & SonsGenerator

Sales & Service, Inc.

828-526-9325Cell: 828-200-1139

email: [email protected]

209 N. 4th Street(Corner of N. 4th and Oak streets

upstairs across from Town Hall.

Phone: 828-526-3241Fax: 828-482-9019Email: [email protected]

Rachel B. Kelley, PMHNP-BCARNP - Board CertifiedPsychiatric • Mental HealthMedication ManagementPositive Wellness

Whiteside Cove Cottages

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of Whiteside Mountain.

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Dog Boarding • Day CarePastoral Park

in Home and Leash FreeLodging in the lap of luxury

(828) 421-7922Highlands NC

[email protected] NC License #10978

Larry HoustonRock Work

Walls • Fireplaces • Patios • Piers All Rock Work • Stucco

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Find us on FaceBookOwner Elias Rios

Fully Insured • 706-982-0864 828-526-0031 • [email protected]

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Ideal for DIYers: Bring in a“Designer for a Day”

Save Money & Time & Avoid Mistakes

DOUGLAS TANKGENERAL CONTRACTOR

New Home Construction•Remodeling•Licensed & Insured

Serving Highlands since 1983 Referrals available.

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PO Box 2014 • Highlands, NC 28741

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Hometown Cedar Roof Cleaning

AfterBefore

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Melinda BarberCabinets, Kitchen & Bath Design

Highlands Atlanta

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• Grading• Excavating• Driveways• Build sites

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ITEMS FOR SALEOwn a piece of American His-

tory! Solid 87-year-old American wormy chestnut. Came out of a house built in Horse Cove by one of the Edwards in 1932. Handbuilt by Buddy Owen.

For more info, go to my website, Facebook.com/OwenLandscaping-WNC or call (828) 884-8764. I build waterfalls, boulder walls, stepping stones, and do light grading and haul-ing. (st. 8/1)

ORIENTAL RUG Karastan Kirman #759 8x12 excellent condi-tion $500. 828-342-4115 (st. 6/13)

COMIC BOOKS – Buy / Sell. Call Bob @ 302-530-1109 (9/5)

WANTED NEEDED AN EXPERI-

ENCED HEALTH CARETAK-ER for a very sweet female Al-zheimer’s patient for limited time each day not during normal working hours in exchange for free lodging and utilities in a fully furnished cot-tage located in Highlands Country Club. For additional information call 828 526-0469. (st. 8/8)

SENIOR MALE NEEDS LIVE-IN companion, driver, house-keeper. Room and board. Small sal-ary. Spends time in NC and FL. Call Phil at 828-526-5261. (st. 8/8)

LONG-TERM LEASE: Stu-dio/Garage Apt or other for couple beginning new job in area. 404-643-3336. (st. 8/1)

HELP WANTEDWAIT STAFF FULL- OR

PART-TIME. Experience preferred. Stop by at Wild Thyme Gourmet on Main Street in Town Square. (st. 8/8)

PART TIME CLEANER to work after hours cleaning banks in Highlands and Cashiers. Please call Linda @ 828-691-6350. (8/8)

RENTAL SPACE AVAIL-

ABLE for hair designer. Apply in person Tues. - Sat. at Mountain Magic, 44 Satulah Road, Highlands. (st. 7/11)

COLONEL MUSTARD’S SPECIALTY FOODS IN HIGH-LANDS looking for an awesome person with a passion for food and cooking. Part time position available, includes some holidays and weekends. If you are a quick learner, friendly and hardworking, you’ll fit right in with our team. Please stop by the shop to fill out an application or email resume to [email protected]. (st. 7/11)

DUTCHMANS CASUAL LIVING STORE Looking for full and part time sales associate to join our team. Must be able to work weekends and holidays. Please call Shannon or Gabbi at 828-526-8864. (st. 6/6)

EMPLOYMENT OPPOR-TUNITIES AVAILABLE AT HIGHLANDS SMOKEHOUSE. Hiring all positions. Commitment to excellence in food quality and guest service. We are proud of the products and service we provide, we create experiences not just sell food. Offering defined, sane schedules and healthy work environment allowing for a bal-anced life. Very cooperative pay. Food service experience preferred. Tobacco free workplace. Contact us at [email protected] (st. 5/2)

FULL-TIME SALES POSI-TION. Weekends & holidays a must. Great hours with a great salary. Nancy’s Fancys. 828-526-5029. (st. 5/2)

THE DRY SINK IN HIGH-LANDS is hiring for full or part time sales positions for the 2019 season. If you like to cook, that is a plus! We’re looking for team oriented people who can offer great customer service to our many customers. If you are friendly, detail oriented, like helping others, enjoy cooking, gadgets, and lots of interesting merchandise, come by and fill out an application, or submit information to: [email protected]. (st. 4/18)

OLD EDWARDS INN & SPA are looking for the following employees: Full-time seasonal sales assistant- Acorns; Sous Chef/Cooks; Assistant Pastry Chef; Front Desk Supervisors/Bellmen; Housekeeping Supervisor; Spa Operations Man-ager; Cosmetologists/Nail Technicians; Hostess/Bartenders/Servers/Bussers Please apply online at www.olded-wardsinn.com or call: Pat Turnbull at 828-787-2697. (st. 3/7)

POTPOURRI BOUTIQUE STORES IN HIGHLANDS look-ing for full time and part time sales

•cLassiFieDs•persons. Retail sales experience with women’s clothing and accessories preferred, eyewear experience a plus. Must be able to work weekends and holidays, except Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving day and Christmas day. Fun, lively, fast paced environment. Please stop by the store for applica-tion or email resume to [email protected] (st. 4/4)

SALES ASSOCIATE HIGH END RETAIL CLOTHING STORE IN HIGHLANDS AND CASHIERS, NC. Full time, part time and seasonal. Inquire to 828-200-0928. (st. 3/38)

THE UGLY DOG PUB wants you to be a part of our team. We need managers, full-time servers, bartend-ers, and support staff with a positive attitude, ability to multitask, and a will-ingness to work as a team. Experience preferred but not required. Working nights and weekends is required. 828-526-8364 [email protected]. (st. 3/21)

WOLFGANG’S RESTAU-RANT is looking for experienced waitstaff, hostesses, line cook, pantry person and bussers. Please call Jacque at 526-3807. (st. 2/14)

SERVICES GUTTER CLEANING,

METAL ROOF & FABRICATON roof repairs, chimney flashing, debris removal. Call 371-1103. (st. 6/27)

WNC PROPERTY MAIN-TENANCE LLC – 828-347-1822. Year-round property maintenance and monitoring for vacation homes-rentals-residential • pressure wash-ing-deck repairs-carpentry-small plumbing & electrical repairs-paint-ing-etc. • lawn care & mowing • by the job or yearly contract • call for FREE estimate • insured

HIGHLANDS-CASHIERS HANDYMAN: Repairs, remodel-ing, painting, pressure washing, minor plumbing and electric, decks and ad-ditions. Free Estimates. Insured. Call 828-200-4071. (9/26)

CAREGIVER/ GUARDIAN – Compassionate and Trustworthy. Over four years of service in care-giving; guardian for more than eight incapacitated clients. Hours are flex-ible to meet your needs.Dependable and punctual. Please contact me to see if I can accommodate your needs.References upon request. Catherine Robinson, 727 [email protected]. (st. 7/3)

HIGH COUNTRY PHOTO/KEVIN VINSON: scanning photos, slides & negatives to CD or DVD for easier viewing. Video transfer to

DVD. Everything done in house. Leave message at 828-526-5208. (st. 4/25)

MURPHY’S PAINTING CO. Interior & Exterior Painting, Sheet-rock Repair, Wallpaper Removal, Log Homes, Decks. Insured. Free Estimates. 828-524-1391 or 828-332-0525.

HIGHLANDS HANDI-MAN – Can fix anything inside or out. Carpentry, painting, pressure washing, lawn care, hauling. and will monitor house during winter. Free Estimates. References. Call Tony. 828-200-5770 or 828-482-0159. (6/27)

REAL ESTATE FOR SALESIX ACRES ON BUCK

CREEK ROAD behind Highlands-Cashiers Hospital. Sign on property. 843-460-8015. (st. 5/30)

3+ ACRES WITH MUL-TIPLE ACCESS/ EXIT POINTS. NUMEROUS BUILD SPOTS. 2 car garage finished (insulated,electrical). 2 bed., 2 bath single-wide with large deck to enjoy expansive views. New well pump. Good for businesses.. Lower Clear Creek 5 miles down HWY 28. Lots of hardwoods and privacy. asking 159,000 (st. 9/21)

1.21 ACRES FOR SALE BY OWNER - OTTO, NC - $28,000. Lot 12 Quail Haven Road. Otto, NC. Price not firm ... open for nego-tiation. Please email if interested to [email protected] or call/text to 239-980-0531. Please leave a message. (st. 7/20)

COMMERCIAL SPACE RENTALS

EXCELLENT OPPORTU-NITY TO PURCHASE A COM-MERCIAL/MIXED USE PROP-ERTY strategically and conveniently close to Highlands in Scaly Mountain. Property includes a post office, real estate office, individual home and five apartments. Directly across from new Dollar General store. For information, contact Jody or Wood Lovell with Highlands Sotheby’s International Reality at 828-526-4104. (st. 6/20)

RESIDENTIAL RENTALSLUXURY APARTMENT IN

TOWN. Walk to Main Street. 1BR 1BA. $3,500 per month. 3 month minimum. Sorry, no pets, no smoking. Adults only. 828-421-1709. (st. 5/10)

BRAND NEW, FURNISHED, CABIN THE WOODS AVAIL-ABLE FOR RENT. 1BR (King) plus sofa bed. Additional separate studio/office is available. If you like nature and tranquility, this is the place for you. No smoking. No pets. Located off Hwy 64 between Highlands and Franklin. Call 828-369-7754. (st. 4/11)


increased visits by bears to the town and residential areas. With much of the bear problem be-ing connected to how the town handles its trash, a few changes have made a successful difference in fighting the bear problem. The town trash cans, which the bears frequently turned over in search of food last summer, have been replaced with bear-proof street cans. The town also wants to stop using shared dumpsters in the commercial areas of town which are an invitation to the bears. The plan is to replace the dumpsters with bear-resistant Barricuda tot-ers.

The public works commit-tee is working to implement the same practices in the residential areas of town. Such practices will help with the bear problems and prevent back injuries from hauling trash cans. Eventually, residential trash cans will be replaced with bear-resistant toters which will be emptied using the toter lifters on the town trucks.

Taylor said the county and the town are also partnering to improve convenience for trash disposal and recycling. Currently, the town has two options – the Buck Creek and the Rich Gap re-cycling centers but he is working with the county to find additional areas for trash disposal in High-lands.

With an increased fire tax and recent purchase of the old deVille property at Main and Oak streets, the Highlands Fire Department is moving forward with plans to build a new fire department.

Taylor also spoke of a poten-tial partnership with the county to enhance EMS services in the Highlands area. With the changes in health care, the community has expressed concerns about availability of medical access in a timely manner. He suggested that EMS be relocated to the new fire station and barracks added for emergency responders to help im-prove response time for EMS and ambulances.

– Kim Lewicki

...PARTNERING continued from page 16

Main Street Inn & Bistro 828-526-2590 • mainstreet-inn.com

“Ace is the Place.”

At Main & 3rd streetsHighlands 526-2157

HardwareReeves

3

www.highlandsiscalling.com828-526-3717

11

Country Club Properties“Your local hometown

Real Estate professionals.”3 Offices 828-526-2520

www.CCPHighlandsNC.com

2 “Highlands is calling and I must go.”

Pam Nellis BROKER

[email protected]

� LANDMARK REAL ESTATE SALES 8: VACATION RENTALS

A�u.o:-,n,

www.LandmarkRG.com I 828-526-4663 I 225 Main St.

6

Suzanne McDavidBroker

cell: (678) 276-6133 • Off: (828) 526-8300

401 N 5th St., Highlands

SILVER EAGLE

349 Main Street, Highlands, NC828.526.5190 silvereaglegallery.com

Native American Jewelry Crystal & Gem Gallery

The Log CabinCasual Dining in 1924 Joe Webb log cabin

Nightly at 5 p.m. • 828-526-5777

33

33

11

402

2

2 1

12

10

5

678

13

413

9

Mitzi Rauers, Broker 404-218-9123

[email protected]

13

K-H Park

Martin-Lipscomb Performing Arts Center

(PAC)

5

“Let me introduce you to our charming corner of the world.”

114 N. 4th Street • Highlands, NC

[email protected] • highlandssir.comoffice: 828.526.8300 • cell: 828.337.0706

Sheryl Wilson

Top 25Broker2018 HCBOR

Sotheby’sis the top

firm inHighlands since 2013

Andrea Gabbard

c 828.200.6742

o 828.526.8300

[email protected]

474 Main Street 828.526.3807 wolfgangs.net

Open Everydayexcept TuesdaysBistro Opens at 4pm

Dining Room at 5:30pm

Celebrating 25 Years!


www.firemt.com • (800) 775-4446

CashmereScotland’s Best Knitwear

MCCULLEY’S

242 S. 4th St. & Pop up on Main Street

Open 7 days a week526-4407

33

828-526-2338

30 ...on the Verandah Restaurant

on Lake Sequoyah

www.ontheverandah.com

Open Year-Round • 7 days a week343-D Main Street. • 526-4035

Lunch 11a-4pDinner 5:30p

#1 Broker Highlands/Cashiers

2001-2018 per Highlands-Cashiers MLS

8

9

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Jody Lovell • 828-526-4104highlandssothebysrealty.com

www.wildthymegourmet.com

Invest In An Extraordinary Experience125 South 4th Street, Highlands • (828) 526-8118 • www.WhiteOakRG.com

Susie deVille, Broker Associate828-371-2079

Bee Gleeson, Broker Associate404-307-1415

Pat Gleeson, Owner, BIC828-782-0472

5

Pat Allen Broker-in-charge

Cell: 828-200-9179 [email protected]

Office: 828-526-8784295 Dillard Road

Highlands, NC 28741

5

Not the Biggest ... Just the Best!

www.patallenrealtygroup.com

Kurt Barbee828-545-7272Ryan Bears

803-271-5426Christy Harris404-229-8737

Rick Harrison404-906-5113 Julie Osborn

BROKERS:828-200-6165

Sherman Pope 828-342-4277Cy Timmons 828-200-9762

Steve Sheppard404-219-1349Sheila Welch828-342-0695

DAV ID BOCK BUILDERS

www.BockBuilders.com 828-526-2240

Top Producers for 14 Years

Serving Dinner nightly at 5:30

Sunday Brunch begins at 11a

6

Paoletti Bar/Dinner Every Evening from 5 p.m.

Reservations: 526-4906

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